Today we will talk about bible verses about laying on of hands. Many Christians may not fully understand the powerful significance of this act within our faith. Laying on of hands, as described in the Bible, is a gesture that symbolizes blessing, healing, and the impartation of the Holy Spirit. It is an important practice in our Christian communities that fosters connection and support among believers. Let’s meditate upon God’s word to uncover the depth of meaning behind laying on of hands as we journey through these verses.
Bible Verses About Laying on of Hands
Healing Through Laying on of Hands
In our spiritual journey, we experience many occasions where we seek healing, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. The Bible teaches us that the act of laying on of hands is a significant way God provides healing. Through this practice, believers come together, sharing their faith and invoking God’s presence to bring about restoration. It’s a powerful reminder that we are not alone; we need each other’s support in moments of need, and we can be vessels of God’s healing love. Let us explore some verses that underline this vital aspect of laying on of hands.
Mark 16:18
“They will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” – Mark 16:18
Acts 28:8
“His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him, and after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him.” – Acts 28:8
James 5:14
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” – James 5:14
Luke 4:40
“When the sun was setting, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them.” – Luke 4:40
Matthew 9:18
“While he was saying this, a synagogue leader came and knelt before him and said, “My daughter has just died. But come and put your hand on her, and she will live.” – Matthew 9:18
Impartation of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in our walk with Christ. Laying on of hands is a significant act through which the Holy Spirit can be imparted to believers. This sharing of the Spirit signifies unity and purpose within the church—the body of Christ. When we lay hands on others, it is a declaration of our collective faith and trust in God’s promise to fill us with His Spirit. This ensures that we are empowered to live out our calling. Let’s look at some scriptures that highlight the importance of the Holy Spirit in relation to laying on of hands.
Acts 8:17
“Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.” – Acts 8:17
Acts 19:6
“When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.” – Acts 19:6
1 Timothy 4:14
“Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.” – 1 Timothy 4:14
2 Timothy 1:6
“For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” – 2 Timothy 1:6
Hebrews 6:2
“Instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.” – Hebrews 6:2
Commissioning and Sending
Laying on of hands also serves as a way to commission and send individuals into their calling or service. When we lay hands on others, we affirm and bless their ministry or work, asking God’s protection and guidance as they step into new endeavors. This act is a powerful reminder that we are part of something larger, working together for God’s kingdom. It strengthens the sense of unity and cooperation among us. Let’s explore verses that emphasize commissioning in the context of laying on of hands.
Acts 13:3
“So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.” – Acts 13:3
1 Timothy 1:18
“Timothy, my son, I am giving you this command in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the battle well.” – 1 Timothy 1:18
Acts 6:6
“They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.” – Acts 6:6
Acts 14:23
“Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord.” – Acts 14:23
Luke 10:19
“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” – Luke 10:19
Affirmation and Blessing
When we lay hands on someone, we often express blessings and affirmations. This act communicates our support and love, reinforcing the fact that we are together in this journey of faith. It indicates that we believe in a person’s potential and purpose in God’s kingdom. We can look at these verses that highlight the theme of blessing through the act of laying on of hands.
Genesis 48:14
“But Israel reached out his right hand and put it on Ephraim’s head, though he was the younger, and crossing his arms he put his left hand on Manasseh’s head, even though Manasseh was the firstborn.” – Genesis 48:14
Numbers 27:18
“So the LORD said to Moses, ‘Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hands on him.'” – Numbers 27:18
Matthew 19:15
“He took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” – Matthew 19:15
Mark 10:16
“And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” – Mark 10:16
Hebrews 7:7
“And without doubt the lesser is blessed by the greater.” – Hebrews 7:7
Teaching and Instruction
Teaching and instruction are vital components in our faith. When we lay hands on individuals during training or impartation sessions, we emphasize the importance of building each other up in the knowledge of God’s word. Through laying on of hands, we affirm the teachings received, encouraging believers to grasp the wisdom of God more deeply. The following scriptures underline the role of teaching alongside this important practice.
2 Timothy 2:2
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” – 2 Timothy 2:2
Ephesians 4:11-12
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” – Ephesians 4:11-12
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” – Matthew 28:19-20
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:16
Romans 10:17
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17
Unity and Fellowship
In our Christian walk, it is important to foster unity and fellowship among believers. Laying on of hands symbolizes that unity as we join our hearts and spirits in prayer and support for one another. This communal act highlights our connection to one another and to God. Through laying hands, we embrace our identity as part of the body of Christ, each with a unique role and purpose. Let’s look at scriptures that focus on the theme of unity through the practice of laying on of hands.
Philippians 1:4-5
“In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:4-5
1 Corinthians 12:12
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 12:12
Romans 12:5
“So in Christ, we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” – Romans 12:5
Ephesians 4:3
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” – Ephesians 4:3
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14
Discipleship and Mentoring
Laying on of hands plays a key role in discipleship and mentoring within our Christian communities. As we mentor others in their faith, we can actively participate in their spiritual growth through this gesture. It strengthens bonds and affirms our commitment to uplifting one another. This facet of laying on of hands is essential for equipping future leaders and disciples in the body of Christ. The following verses remind us of the importance of discipleship and mentoring.
Titus 1:5
“The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.” – Titus 1:5
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
2 Corinthians 1:24
“Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.” – 2 Corinthians 1:24
Colossians 1:28
“He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.” – Colossians 1:28
1 Peter 5:2
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be.” – 1 Peter 5:2
Preparing for Service
Before we embark on various paths of service, laying on of hands symbolizes our readiness and commitment to God’s work. It’s a practical way of blessing those who are about to serve or take on new roles. This ritual emphasizes our shared intention and prepares our hearts and minds for upcoming challenges and opportunities in ministry. The verses below illustrate this commitment and readiness through laying on of hands.
1 Samuel 10:1
“Then Samuel took a flask of oil and poured it on Saul’s head and kissed him, saying, ‘Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over his inheritance?'” – 1 Samuel 10:1
Exodus 29:10
“Bring the bull to the front of the tent of meeting, and Aaron and his sons shall lay their hands on its head.” – Exodus 29:10
Ezra 8:24
“Then I set apart twelve of the leading priests, together with ten of their brothers, to guard the offerings donated by the people and the priests.” – Ezra 8:24
Acts 1:24
“Then they prayed, ‘Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry.’” – Acts 1:24
Nehemiah 5:13
“I also shook out the folds of my robe and said, ‘In this way may God shake out of their house and possessions anyone who does not keep this promise. So may such a person be shaken out and emptied!'” – Nehemiah 5:13
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the significance of laying on of hands, it is clear that this practice intertwines with many vital aspects of our faith, including healing, empowerment, commissioning, and much more. It brings us closer to one another, allowing us to support each other in our journeys. Each verse we’ve explored offers a unique glimpse into how God has used this simple yet profound act throughout Scripture.
We are reminded that through laying on of hands, we affirm our desires for healing, empowerment by the Holy Spirit, and the commissioning of others into service. The act extends beyond a mere gesture; it is a demonstration of our faith, love, and unity as members of the body of Christ.
Let us take these insights and continue to practice laying on of hands with purpose and sincerity, creating warm connections as we journey together in faith, embracing God’s call for our lives and those around us.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
